Pilot study of transesophageal endoscopic surgery: NOTES esophagomyotomy, vagotomy, lymphadenectomy.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical feasibility of endosonographically-assisted transesophageal access for vagotomy, esophagomyotomy, and lymphadenectomy in a nonsurvival study with six porcine models in an animal laboratory with general anesthesia.

Methods: Saline/hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) was injected into the submucosa with a subsequent biliary balloon dissection, creating a substantial submucosal space for a cap-fitted endoscope. A distal esophageal myotomy was performed after access into the thoracic cavity. Over the course of 6 pigs, esophagomyotomy (simulating a Heller myotomy), vagotomy, and lymphadenectomy were performed. The esophageal insertion/access site was sealed by the flap of mucosa.

Results: Using a midesophageal entrance point, successful thoracic access and therapeutic interventions involving the esophagus and periesophageal structures were performed in 6 pigs.

Conclusions: The submucosal saline/HPMC tunneling technique allowed for successful access to the upper mediastinum through the esophagus with feasible therapeutic interventions.